How materials are tested to determine their physical properties

What is tensile testing?

the material or part is clamped in two locations, usually on opposite ends, and increasing pulling force is applied in opposing directions to measure stretching

What is hardness testing?

this is tested by indenting the material with a known hard material such as diamond. The force used to create this is measured to determine hardness.

What is toughness testing?

this is undertaken by allowing a pendulum with a mass on the base to strike the side of the material or part. The extent to which the shape bends (deflects) dictates its level of toughness.

What is malleability testing?

is done by applying a stamping action (pressing) on the material to see how much the malleable material will flatten without breaking.

What is ductility testing?

is performed in a similar manner to tensile strength testing, where the material is drawn apart.

What is conductivity testing?

is done by passing an electrical current through the metal material and measuring its resistance

What is elasticity?

is another stretching test but measures a material’s ability to be stretched without permanent deformation.